Architect Exam Podcast

Black and white logo for the Architect Exam Podcast with bold text and a circular emblem in the word “Podcast.”

The Architect Exam Podcast is a free ARE exam prep resource covering all six NCARB divisions. Each episode breaks down exactly what you need to know for the architect registration exam – no fluff, no filler, just the content that actually shows up on the test.

No need to take notes while you listen. For many episodes, we’ve already made a free two-page set of study notes for you – just head to the episode page and grab them. Whether you’re just starting the ARE or grinding through your last exam, there’s something here for every stage of the licensing journey.

The podcast covers all six ARE 5.0 exam divisions:


Ready for more than a podcast? ARE Boot Camp is a 10-week coaching program that gives you a clear roadmap, weekly live sessions, and accountability all the way to your last exam. Learn more about ARE Boot Camp →

Browse our complete library of podcast episodes and companion articles below. Each episode comes with an in-depth article that expands on the key concepts.

This podcast is also available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts


Do I need to take notes while I listen? Nope. For many episodes, we’ve already made a free two-page set of study notes for you. Just go to the episode page, enter your email, and download them. Hit play and just listen.

Where can I listen to the Architect Exam Podcast? You can listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or right here on this website. Many episodes are also embedded directly inside the Young Architect Academy courses – so if you’re a member, you’ll find relevant episodes built right into the course content you’re already studying.

Does the podcast cover all six ARE 5.0 exams? Yes. Episodes cover all six NCARB divisions – PcM, PjM, PA, PPD, PDD, and CE – plus study strategy, AIA contracts, building codes, and CDT exam prep. Use the category links above to find episodes for the specific exam you’re studying.

ARE Podcasts by Exam:

Illustration comparing construction types I through V, showing concrete, steel, masonry, heavy timber, and wood frame structures.

Construction Types 1-5: IBC Building Classifications

Construction types are fundamental building classifications that determine everything from fire resistance to allowable heights and materials. This guide breaks down all five types of building construction as defined in the International Building Code (IBC),...

Construction worker with boxing gloves punching through a giant checklist, symbolizing the final push to complete a construction punch list.

The Construction Punch List Process Explained

Construction punch lists are the final critical step before project completion, yet there's confusion about who creates them. While many assume architects are responsible, the contractor actually creates the initial punch list - a fact...

Architect focused on preconstruction planning, surrounded by drawings, schedules, and bid documents in a high-rise office setting.

Preconstruction: What Happens Before Construction Starts

Understanding preconstruction activities is essential for ARE candidates preparing for the Construction Evaluation (CE) exam. This comprehensive guide breaks down CE Section 1, explaining the architect's changing roles during preconstruction, contractor selection criteria, and cost...

City scene illustrating occupancy classifications including assembly, business, educational, factory, institutional, and residential buildings.

IBC Occupancy Classifications: All 10 Groups Explained

Mastering occupancy classifications are essential for ARE success. This guide breaks down IBC's classification system and shows how it affects design, code compliance, and safety. Learn to confidently classify any project and avoid costly compliance...

Female architect pointing to a massive on-site chart listing construction specification types like MasterFormat, performance, and proprietary.

Construction Specification Types Made Simple: A Complete Guide

This guide demystifies all major construction specification types and helps you understand when and how to use each one. These distinctions will make you more effective at writing, interpreting, enforcing, and managing construction documents....

Rolled construction drawings and a specs book face off in a boxing ring, dramatizing the classic Drawings vs. Specifications debate in architecture.

Drawings vs. Specifications: Why “Specs Always Win” Is Dead Wrong

This guide debunks the common misconception about document precedence and explains how drawings vs specifications work together as complementary contract documents. Understanding this drawings vs specifications relationship is crucial for both ARE success and professional...

Female architect Layla Qarout studying building codes on a laptop labeled “Building Codes 101,” surrounded by floor plans and construction documents.

Persistence, Practice, And Passing The ARE – Meet Layla Qarout

Layla Qarout had anything but a typical journey to becoming a licensed architect. Originally from Palestine, Layla transitioned internationally, navigated through ARE 5.0, and experienced firsthand how challenging and frustrating the exam process can be....

Female architect holding an open book on a construction site with a giant manual titled “Construction Specifications 101” in the background.

Construction Specifications 101: The Project Manual Explained

Have you ever wondered why architectural specifications matter so much? Or maybe you've been avoiding them altogether because they seem intimidating or boring? I get it. Specs aren't exactly the most exciting part of architecture...

Giant monster looms over a chaotic construction site, symbolizing unexpected issues and the need for construction contingency planning.

Construction Contingency: Planning for the Project’s Unknown

In the world of architecture and construction, one truth remains constant: something will always go wrong. No matter how meticulously you plan, how carefully you design, or how thoroughly you prepare your construction documents, the...

Female Architect Emily Hobbs working late at her desk, reviewing building specifications on a laptop with drawings and plans spread out around her.

Community, Confidence, and Licensing – Meet Emily Hobbs

This podcast is also available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts Emily Hobbs didn’t have an easy journey to becoming a licensed architect—but that’s exactly why her story is so powerful. From enduring hurricanes and...

Contractor behind bars while an architect holds a property lien document next to a sign reading construction bonds

Construction Bonds 101: Everything You Need to Know

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about construction bonds and how they protect your projects. You'll learn the different types of construction bonds (including performance bonds and payment bonds), how surety bonds...

A classical courthouse and a modern office building balanced on a scale, symbolizing the comparison of public works projects vs private construction projects.

Public Works Projects vs Private: 12 Key Differences

Public works projects and private projects follow completely different rules for procurement, contracts, and decision-making. Whether you’re working with government agencies or private architecture clients, understanding these differences changes how you practice. This guide breaks...

Architect Michael Riscica working late at a drafting desk with blueprints and a glowing laptop screen that displays the Architect Exam Podcast.

Episode 000 of The New ARE Podcast

The Architect Exam Podcast launches today with episode 000! Join Michael Riscica for bite-sized, expert advice on passing the ARE. Each 10-20 minute episode delivers focused content on exam topics and study strategies - perfect...